On Feb. 6, Silverthorne’s First Friday celebration will honor the diverse cultural influences of our community with a Wish Lantern Festival. Drawing inspiration from Día de la Candelaria and the Lunar New Year, February First Friday will honor cultural traditions as we welcome a new year with our friends and neighbors. The Wish Lantern Festival will take place at the Silverthorne Pavilion from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6.
Wish Lanterns
Día de la Candelaria, which is celebrated worldwide, but most notably in Mexico and other Latin American countries, and the Chinese Lunar New Year, celebrate the search of light and the mid-way point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox with wish lantern festivals. The hardest and darkest part of the year is over, and we celebrate new beginnings with wishes. Wish lanterns are a part of Día de la Candelaria and Lunar New Year and Silverthorne is excited to celebrate these cultural celebrations at February First Friday.
Wish lanterns will be available for community members to decorate at the Silverthorne Pavilion during February First Friday. Make a wish as lanterns decorated by the community float down the Blue River for a festive and colorful sight. Optimal viewing will be on the bridge north of Chipotle, the Pavilion bridge or along the Blue River Trail behind Sauce on the Blue and Enza's Delicatessen & Market. Lanterns will be released at 7 p.m.
Wish lanterns will be placed in the Blue River north of Chipotle by the bridge and will be collected farther down by members of the Summit County Water Rescue Group to ensure that lanterns do not pollute the river.
Schedule of Events
- 5:30–6:45 p.m.: Decorate your wish lantern at the Silverthorne Pavilion
- 5:30–7:00 p.m.: Live music with Remezcla
- 7–7:30 p.m.: Wish lanterns float down the Blue River
- 7:30–8:30 p.m.: Lunar New Year celebration and dragon dance
First Friday Tips
- Walk, ride your bike, carpool or take the free Summit Stage to First Friday as parking is limited.
- Bring your reusable First Friday cup for $1 off beer or wine.
- Drink responsibly and designate a sober driver.
- No outside alcohol is permitted at First Friday events.